Crook County Public RecordsOregon

As of 2023, Crook County, Oregon has a population of approximately 26,300. The median age is about 47 years, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female residents. The racial composition is primarily White (around 89%), followed by Hispanic or Latino (about 9%), and small percentages of American Indian, Asian, and other races. Crook County's population is older and less diverse compared to Oregon overall.

As of early 2024, Crook County, Oregon, has approximately 18,000 registered voters, predominantly Republican (about 55%), with Democrats at 20%, and non-affiliated/other parties making up the rest. Elections include federal, state, and local races, school boards, and measures. In the 2022 general election, turnout was 68%. Major issues include land use, water rights, and economic development. Ballots are primarily mailed, with drop sites at Prineville, Powell Butte, and Post. The County Clerk’s Office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state law and transparency in tabulation and reporting.

Crook County, OR, features 13 public schools, including Crook County High School, serving around 3,200 students district-wide. Approximately 88% of adults have a high school diploma, while 18% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is a priority, with the district scoring 7/10 in state safety metrics. The schools offer programs in STEM, CTE, arts, and Advanced Placement. Graduation rates stand at about 85%. Adult education includes GED and workforce training through COCC partnerships, supporting lifelong learning for residents.

As of 2023, Crook County, OR, had an employment rate of approximately 55%. The largest industries are health care and social assistance (17%), retail trade (15%), and manufacturing (13%). Major occupation types include office and administrative support (14%), sales (12%), and production (11%). About 77% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 20 minutes. Most employed residents work within the county, though around 23% commute to neighboring counties, especially Deschutes. The unemployment rate hovers near 5%.

Crook County, OR has a homeownership rate of around 74%, with median home values near $390,000 as of early 2024—a rise of about 7% year-over-year. Median gross rent is approximately $950 monthly. Housing types range from single-family homes in neighborhoods like Ochoco Pointe to rural ranch properties and some newer developments in Prineville. Property taxes average roughly 1.1% of assessed value, making them moderate for Oregon. Growth is notable in both subdivisions and rentals, reflecting increasing demand in this high-desert county.

Crook County, OR, maintains a moderate crime rate, with recent statistics showing a violent crime rate of 16 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,166 per 100,000—lower than the national average. The sheriff’s office actively encourages community reporting and collaboration, contributing to an overall sense of safety. In 2023, there were 3 reported violent crimes and 220 property crimes. While crime rates are declining, residents are advised to stay vigilant and participate in neighborhood watch programs for improved safety.